HAMISH Bailey enters the 2021-22 Hamilton and District Cricket Association (HDCA) season as one of the most revered and successful figures the competition has seen, with his batting prowess placing him in the top echelon of both current and past A grade players.

But while the experienced College Cricket Club (CCC) batter sticks to holding the willow these days, his younger years saw him excel both behind the wickets and as a fast bowler.